Specialist lender West One has introduced a new criteria search tool on its website in partnership with Knowledge Bank, giving brokers quicker access to its lending criteria across a range of mortgage products.
The new ‘Criteria Search’ function allows intermediaries to check West One’s lending rules directly through the lender’s website using Knowledge Bank’s extensive criteria database.
The move is designed to help advisers quickly determine whether a case fits the lender’s appetite before submitting an application.
Knowledge Bank’s system enables brokers to search for specific borrower circumstances with a high level of detail. Results typically return a clear response of “Yes”, “Not accepted” or “Please refer”, accompanied by an explanation outlining how the case may be assessed.
FULL LENDING RANGE
The tool spans West One’s full lending range, including residential, buy-to-let, second charge, commercial and bridging finance products.
Brokers do not need to hold a Knowledge Bank subscription to use the tool when accessing it through West One’s website.
Criteria search platforms have become an increasingly important resource for intermediaries navigating the complex and varied requirements of specialist lenders, particularly where borrower circumstances or property types fall outside standard lending parameters.
By integrating the functionality directly into its own platform, West One said it aims to make it easier for advisers to identify suitable solutions and place cases with confidence.
SIMPLIFIED PROCESS

Marie Grundy, managing director of mortgages at West One, said the partnership was intended to simplify the process for brokers researching lender criteria.
She added: “We’re thrilled to partner with Knowledge Bank to make it even easier for brokers to understand our products and give them the confidence to place cases with us,” she said.
“The tool is remarkably innovative and I’m excited about the new opportunities brokers may be able identify for their clients where West One has a solution ready.”
West One said the addition of the tool forms part of its ongoing efforts to streamline broker access to information and improve the overall intermediary experience when researching lending options.




